We spoke with Terry Lee Nichols about “Love Is…” and more!

Hey! “Love Is…” is such an evocative title. Was there a specific moment or emotion that sparked the idea for this piece?

A: Feeling grateful for having lived a good life, I reflected on the many kinds of love I’ve been fortunate to experience. That gratitude sparked the concept for Love Is….

When you sit down to write something like this, do you already know the story you want to tell musically, or does it unfold as you play?

A: I usually begin with a general outline of the story I want to tell. Then I sit at the piano and let the music guide me, shaping each composition as the story unfolds.

Your music blends classical, ambient, and new age so seamlessly. How do you decide which direction to go when creating a new track?

A: The story itself dictates the style—or styles—that best convey it. Some pieces lean more classical, others more ambient, but it’s always about serving the narrative.

You’ve been telling stories through music for a long time. How does “Love Is…” fit into your larger musical journey?

A: It feels like the natural next step. Each album marks a new chapter in my journey, and now I’m beginning to explore the ideas and themes that will shape my next work.

Is there a particular visual or memory that plays in your mind when you hear this piece back?

A: Many of my compositions are tied to specific visual memories, while others capture broader feelings. For example, Lying Next to You was composed in my mind each evening as I came to bed—it tells the story of my actions, thoughts, hopes, and dreams in that intimate moment.

Some of your work feels like it could score a film. Do you ever think of your compositions in cinematic terms?

A: Almost always. I tend to imagine my music cinematically, with pieces like We’ve Had a Good Life and The Winds of Time being strong examples of that approach.

What was the most surprising part of creating “Love Is…”? Either creatively or emotionally.

A: I was surprised by how open I was willing to be with my history, thoughts, and feelings. I felt a need to be completely transparent in this album.

Do you find it easier or harder to write about something as universal and personal as love?

A: Love is both universal and deeply personal, and that duality can be challenging. But ultimately, it gave me freedom—I wasn’t confined to one definition, but could explore many dimensions of love.

How do you hope listeners feel after hearing “Love Is…”? Is there something you want them to take away from it?

A: I hope each listener envisions their own story through the music. More than anything, I want them to feel grateful for the love they’ve known in their own lives.

What’s next for you for the rest of this year? Any upcoming projects, collaborations, or surprises on the horizon?

A: I’m just beginning to sketch ideas for my next album. It’s still in the early stages, but I’m excited to see where the journey leads.

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Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night

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